The Hopi Indians were considered a sub tribe of
the Pueblo Indians, hailing from Arizona, but they spoke a different
language. The word Hopi means peaceful ones, or hopeful. Hopi Indians
lived in pueblos, which are homes made of mud and stones (dried clay).
Corn was the most common food grown and eaten on the land, with over
24 different varieties, although yellow and blue were the most popular.
Squash, beans, pumpkins, and other various fruits were also grown and
eaten.

The women of the Hopi tribe were designated to take care of the home,
look after the children, and cook. The men of the tribe were the hunters,
weavers, and performers of various ceremonies. A tradition for Hopi
children was to wait twenty days after they were born, then the parents
would hold the child facing the sun on the 20th day. Once the sun hits
the child, he or she was then given a name.

Artwork and pottery were very important parts of
Hopi life. Intricately woven rugs were often made, and pottery was especially
important. The pottery was made of wet clay and then buried under the
sand until it dried. Each piece told a story and was used for everything
from bathing to cooking. The environment in which the Hopi Indians lived
was very warm and dry. They wore very little clothing and adorned themselves
with feathers and wildflowers. The evenings could get cool and they
would keep warm by using their blankets and gathering around a fire.
The Hopi performed a ritualistic snake dance that is said to bring good
luck and prosper to the tribe. They also perform many other dances and
rituals. Today, many groups are working hard to preserve their way of
life and the pueblos that still stand throughout the state of Arizona.